Ukrainian Special Forces Adapt Tactics to Counter Drone Threat on Front Lines

Ukrainian special forces are continuously modifying their combat methods to contend with the pervasive threat of drones, which are increasingly dominating the battlefield. Operations targeting Russian-held trenches now require constant vigilance of the airspace, as critical as monitoring enemy ground positions.

An operator from the Ukrainian Special Operations Forces' 4th Ranger Regiment, identified only by the call sign "Gur," stated that their training has significantly changed. Units are utilizing unmanned aerial vehicles more frequently and are placing greater emphasis on anti-drone defense measures. Training now includes exercises for small-group infiltration and rapid responses to aerial threats.

The front lines in southern and eastern Ukraine are described by soldiers and officials as a "death zone." Drones surveil and can strike almost any moving target, from individual soldiers to military vehicles, across a zone typically extending 10 to 20 kilometers on either side of the contact line. Ukrainian authorities report that the area covered by drones is expanding, forcing commanders to constantly adapt their tactics.

Gur explained that drone pilots are now integrated into special forces training exercises. Soldiers practice identifying aerial threats, neutralizing simulated enemy drones, protecting comrades, and finding immediate shelter. When on the ground, they learn to use vegetation and terrain for concealment, halting movement when drones are overhead and resuming only after the threat has passed. In live-fire drills, operators are using bolt-action rifles as a last resort against FPV drones, particularly those guided by fiber optics, which are difficult to counter with electronic jamming.

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Our preparation has changed.